What are forever chemicals? - Something Splendid

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“Forever” sounds appealing when it’s attached to diamonds and love. It feels far less comforting when it describes chemicals that linger in our bodies for years. These substances are PFAS, often called forever chemicals because they break down very slowly. They have been popping up in my news feeds lately, so I thought I’d do a little research. In this article, you’ll find a little background information and answers to some common questions about forever chemicals, especially as they relate to our health.

Much of this information is drawn from a Cleveland Clinic article.

Forever chemicals: the basics

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large group of endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in many everyday products, including clothing, cosmetics, nonstick cookware, rugs, upholstery, and some food packaging. As endocrinologist David Shewmon, MD, explains, we’re exposed to these chemicals regularly through what we eat, breathe, and touch. While each exposure may be small, the effects can add up over time and influence how our bodies function.

Because PFAS break down very slowly, they can accumulate in the body. As levels increase, they may interfere with hormones that help regulate mood, sleep, metabolism, blood pressure, and reproduction. First introduced in the 1940s, these human-made chemicals were designed to be durable and resistant to heat, water, oil, and stains. Although they were originally created to improve convenience and product performance, their persistence is what raises health concerns today.

Where are forever chemicals found?

PFAS are commonly used to make products more resistant to wear and mess. You can encounter them in clothing, cosmetics, nonstick cookware, rugs, upholstery, firefighting foam, and food packaging. In the past, food wrappers and containers were a major source of exposure in the U.S.

In early 2024, the FDA announced that companies were voluntarily phasing out PFAS-treated food packaging, with a final deadline of August 2025 or until supplies run out. Most manufacturers exited the market earlier than expected, meaning dietary exposure from packaging is now much lower than it once was.

PFAS can enter the environment through manufacturing and consumer products. They can contaminate water, soil, and food. Today, nearly all Americans have some PFAS in their blood. Exposure can happen by drinking contaminated water, eating fish from polluted waters, consuming food grown near PFAS facilities, or using products that contain these chemicals.

Why do PFAS matter for health?

Only a small number of PFAS have been studied in depth. The EPA has classified two of the most researched types, PFOA and PFOS, as hazardous. While these are no longer manufactured in the U.S., they still persist in the environment, and other PFAS continue to be produced.

Health effects vary depending on how much exposure a person has, how long it lasts, and individual factors like age and overall health. PFAS are not the sole cause of chronic disease, but research suggests they can contribute over time.

Higher or repeated exposure has been linked to thyroid disruption, developmental concerns in children, increased cancer risk, weakened immune response, and reproductive challenges. During pregnancy, exposure has also been associated with complications such as high blood pressure.

How concerned should you be?

Health effects from PFAS tend to develop gradually. People with certain occupations, such as firefighters, or those living near contaminated water supplies may face higher risks. For most people, exposure is more moderate and can be reduced.

Simple steps can help lower exposure, including using certified water filters, avoiding nonstick cookware and stain resistant furniture treatments, choosing glass containers for takeout food, and staying informed about local water and food advisories.

As Dr. Shewmon emphasizes, the goal is not to be fearful, but aware. Understanding where PFAS are found makes it easier to make informed choices and reduce exposure over time.

How do forever chemicals tie in with microplastics?

Microplastics and forever chemicals are related, but they are not the same thing. They overlap in ways that matter for health and exposure.

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that come from the breakdown of larger plastic items or are intentionally manufactured at a small size. They are now found in water, soil, food, air, and even in human blood and organs.

Forever chemicals, like PFAS, are specific chemical compounds designed to resist breakdown. Their “forever” quality comes from very strong chemical bonds that allow them to persist in the environment and in the body for long periods of time.

The connection between PFAS and microplastics:

Many plastics contain chemical additives, and PFAS are sometimes used in plastic products to add properties like water or stain resistance. Microplastics can also act like carriers. Their surfaces can attract and hold onto PFAS and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals, helping transport them through water, food chains, and potentially into the body.

In practical terms, that means microplastics can increase exposure to forever chemicals even when they are not the original source. You might encounter PFAS directly from a product, and indirectly through microplastics that have absorbed them from the environment.

Both raise concern for similar reasons. They persist, they accumulate, and they may interfere with hormones, immune function, and long term health. Research is still evolving, especially around microplastics, but scientists increasingly view them as part of the same broader issue of long-lasting environmental contaminants.

flasks with droppers in the background with a lightbulb and text "What are forever chemicals? Explore what forever chemicals (PFAS) are, where they're found, how they affect health, and simple steps to reduce everyday exposure."

Simple ways to reduce everyday PFAS exposure:

Use a certified water filter if your local water supply has known PFAS-contamination.
Choose stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware instead of nonstick pans.
Skip stain-resistant or water-repellent treatments on furniture, rugs, and clothing when possible.
Store food in glass or stainless steel containers rather than plastic, especially for hot foods.
Bring your own containers for takeout and leftovers when you can.
Pay attention to local advisories about drinking water, fish, and agricultural products.
Read labels and look for brands that clearly state they are PFAS-free.
Reduce plastic use overall, since plastics can contribute to microplastic exposure and may carry other chemicals.

Do you have other questions about forever chemicals?

Feel free to put your ideas in the comments. I’m happy to explore the idea further.

The idea of forever chemicals can be overwhelming at first, especially because they are so widespread and long lasting. But awareness is a powerful first step. PFAS exposure often happens in small ways over time, which also means small changes can add up. By paying attention to the products we use, the food we store, and the water we drink, we can lower our everyday exposure without drastic lifestyle changes. The goal isn’t perfection or fear, but informed choices that support long-term health, one practical step at a time.

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Fondly,

Crysti